(The Center Square) – Michigan’s putting together a bipartisan push to get President Donald Trump to declare 12 Michigan counties and Native American tribal lands a disaster area.
The request comes after an historic ice storm hit the state March 28-30, causing power outages, communication issues and hundreds of miles of roads blocked by fallen trees and debris.
If Trump approves, $5 million would be available immediately for emergency efforts, including debris removal.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said she has submitted a request for the declaration.
“Following historic ice storms in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, we are bringing an all-hands-on-deck approach to help get the power back on, clear roads, and keep people safe,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. “We’ll continue coordinating closely with first-responders, local communities, and Michiganders on the ground. Michiganders are strong, and we’ll get through this together.”
Rep. Ken Borton, R-Gaylord, joined Whitmer, a Democrat, in asking for help in the area. He said people impacted by the storm supported Trump, and they need his support now.
“There are a lot of people standing behind President Trump in Northern Michigan,” Borton said. “Now we need him to back us up in our time of need. This emergency declaration and the federal funding it would bring are crucial to recovery efforts in our rural communities.”
Borton called the storm a once-in-a-generation event that left more than 100,000 homes and businesses without power.
“Every bit of damage comes with a price tag. Every first responder and frontline worker putting in overtime has to be paid,” Borton said.
